Myeloproliferative Disorders - Treatment

Myeloproliferative Disorders - Treatment

Depending on the type of MPD and the symptoms experienced by patients, different medications may be used. Some therapies, such as hydroxyurea, anagrelide or interferon-alpha, reduce the number of abnormal cells. Aspirin is usually beneficial in ET and PV patients. Phlebotomy is mandatory measure in PV patients with high red blood cell count.

Patients with a low red cell count may receive a blood transfusion. Those with low platelets may benefit from platelet transfusion. Growth factors that stimulate growth of bone marrow cells, given as injection under the skin, may benefit patients with low blood cell count. Other medications, such as thalidomide, steroids and other hormones, cladribine and busulfan may help treat some MPD. Radiation therapy or surgical removal of the spleen may also be useful in certain circumstances.